I found this book on an obscure shelf at B&N on sale. It is the first novel of the author and in ways it shows. The book lacked legitimacy (proven in the "Conversation with the author" at the end of the book. The story takes place in Kenya, yet the author had never been there until she wrote the book. Well, even though it does become somewhat apparent especially during the first half -- there was a compelling story hidden in this book which I found extraordinary. I wish she had expanded on certain themes, explained others a bit more fully - but all in all, a book that explores the some of the old customs of tribal Africa as well as a very small hint at modern Africa, male and female circumcision are also explored but again, not in the detail I would have liked. It was a broad concept in a short book and so, a mixed bag.

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